Norman Whitfield
1940–2008 (age 68)
Songwriter/Producer
Biography
Norman Whitfield became one of Motown's most innovative producers and songwriters, co-creating landmark hits for the Temptations, Marvin Gaye, Gladys Knight & the Pips, and other artists and pioneering a gritty, psychedelic soul sound.
He used his craft to speak to social issues, weaving messages about equality and community into songs like 'Papa Was a Rollin' Stone' and 'Ball of Confusion,' shaping the soundtrack of a generation.